Guilty verdict in torture trial

March 5, 2014

MARQUETTE - On 11 of the 12 counts in the torture trial of Jason David Sadowski and Charles Leroy Cope, the jury foreman had only one word: guilty.

The verdict was returned at about 9 p.m Tuesday following eight hours of deliberation.

Sadowski, 44, and Cope, 66, were each charged with two counts of torture and two counts of unlawful imprisonment. Sadowski was also charged with first degree criminal sexual conduct, solicitation of murder and assault with intent to do bodily harm less than murder.

Sadowski was found guilty on every charge, except the criminal sexual conduct charge.

Cope was found guilty on all four charges against him.

Both men could face up to life in prison. A sentencing hearing has not yet been scheduled.

"We're very satisfied with the verdict," Marquette County Prosecuting Attorney Matthew Wiese said just after the verdict was read Tuesday night. "It was evident that the jury paid close attention to the case and worked hard during deliberations and carefully went through all of the crimes alleged and we're very happy that there is justice for the victims in this case."

Sadowski's defense attorney Timothy Quinnell also spoke on behalf of his client.

"We're disappointed in the results but we respect the decision of the jury," Quinnell said.

Karl Numinen, defense counsel for Cope, declined to comment.

The courtroom was half-filled with supporters of the two Ishpeming women held captive July 2 in Sadowski's home and business, The Martial Way, as well as supporters of the defendants. Most of the spectators had attended each day of the seven-day trial.

Family members from the victims sat in the first two rows behind Wiese, holding hands.

Before the jury was brought inside, Judge Jennifer Mazzuchi warned spectators to control their emotions.

Though there were no emotional outbursts from anyone gathered in the courtroom, tears were shed by many as the jury read its verdict.